BASEBALL: Mixed local reaction to Reading Fightin Phils

By
Frank Otto, The Mercury

Saturday, November 17, 2012

POTTSTOWN — During a large part of its 46-year affiliation with the Philadelphia Phillies, Reading’s Double-A minor league franchise has been at the head of the class when it comes to promotions and marketing.

Some would say Reading’s front office took that to a new level with the recent news that it would be changing the name of the Reading Phillies.

Saturday, the “rebranding” became official when it was announced the team will now go by the Reading Fightin Phils.

The squad’s new look is highlighted (some might say lowlighted) by an ostrich logo that builds upon Reading’s “Crazy Hot Dog Vendor” character.

Suffice it to say local fan reaction to the rebranding has been a bit mixed, judging by the responses on The Mercury’s Facebook page.

Some folks, like Monica Callahan Bainbridge of Pottsgrove, give the concept a thumbs up.

“I like it all,” she said. “The name, the logo, the uniqueness without taking away the meaning and heritage of the team or the town. Great job!”

Kim Delibertis-Bergen agreed, sensing the new moniker would eventually grow on the fan base.

“The kids will love it,” she said. “Everyone hated the Iron Pigs (Philadelphia’s Triple-A club in Lehigh Valley) name and logo when it was first rolled out. People will still go and support the team and they will learn to embrace change! Seeing a Phils game in Reading is still the best value around.”